Ingredient library
Every ingredient SkinAtlas knows about — all 2402 of them. What each one does, what it works well with, and what to watch for.
A complex ester of PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil and pyroglutamic acid (PCA) isostearate. Used as a gentle emulsifier and skin-conditioning agent, particularly in sensitive skin formulations like Minon.
A PEG-40 ester of stearic acid used as a mild nonionic emulsifier to stabilize oil-in-water cosmetic emulsions.
A synthetic acrylate-methacrylate copolymer containing PEG-400 segments. Used as a film-forming thickener and rheology modifier in cosmetic formulas.
A high-molecular-weight polyethylene glycol (~4000 Da) used as a humectant, solvent, and mild thickener in cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulas.
A medium-to-high-chain polyethylene glycol (~45 ethylene oxide units, ~2000 Da) used as a humectant and solvent in skincare formulas.
A polyethoxylated hydrogenated castor oil (45 EO units) used as a nonionic emulsifier and solubilizer for oils and fragrance in cosmetics.
A PEG ester of stearic acid with approximately 45 ethylene oxide units. Used as a gentle emulsifier in Chifure's moisturizing emulsion.
A PEG-5 ether of rapeseed (Brassica napus) phytosterols; used as an emollient and emulsifier, contributing plant sterols to support skin barrier function.
A PEG ether of soy-derived phytosterol with 5 ethylene oxide units. Functions as a gentle emulsifier and skin-conditioning agent with barrier-supportive properties from the phytosterol component.
A PEG ether of hydrogenated castor oil with approximately 50 ethylene oxide units. Used as an emulsifier and solubilizer for hydrophobic ingredients. Used in Bijin Nuka's rice toner.
A triisostearate ester of PEG-50 hydrogenated castor oil used as a nonionic emulsifier and solubilizer in lotions and skin-conditioning products.
A PEGylated propylene glycol oleate ester used as a mild nonionic emulsifier and solubilizer in cleansers and lotions.
A short-chain polyethylene glycol (MW ~300 Da) used primarily as a solvent and humectant. Increases water-binding capacity and improves the texture and feel of toners and essences.
A PEGylated glyceride emulsifier derived from coconut caprylic/capric fatty acids, used to solubilize and emulsify oils in water-based cosmetic systems.
A low-ethoxylation hydrogenated castor oil (6 EO units) used as a mild nonionic emulsifier and solubilizer in lotions and toners.
A PEGylated almond glyceride used as a mild nonionic emulsifier and solubilizer, popular in cleansing balms and rinse-off products.
A polyethylene glycol ester of glyceryl isostearate used as an emulsifier and solubiliser in Japanese cosmetics. Provides good skin feel and is tolerant of high electrolyte concentrations.
A polyethoxylated hydrogenated castor oil used as a nonionic emulsifier and solubilizer for oils and fragrance compounds in cosmetics.
A complex ester combining PEG-60 hydrogenated castor oil with pyroglutamic acid (PCA) isostearate. Provides gentle emulsification and skin-conditioning benefits. Used in Minon's sensitive-skin sheet masks.
A high-molecular-weight polyethylene glycol (MW ~6000 Da, ~136 EO units). Used as a thickener and binder in cosmetics.
A dimethicone copolymer with 7 polyethylene glycol (PEG) side chains that confer water solubility. Functions as an O/W emulsifier and skin conditioner, combining silicone's signature smoothness with aqueous compatibility. Commonly used in watery creams, gel moisturizers, and lightweight foundations. Distinct from PEG-10 Dimethicone (10 PEG units, more water-soluble) and PEG-12 Dimethicone.
A PEGylated glyceryl cocoate derived from coconut oil used as a gentle nonionic surfactant and emulsifier in facial washes and masks.
A PEG-7 ester of glyceryl isostearate. Functions as an emulsifier and skin conditioner, particularly in water-in-oil emulsions like Elixir's brightening emulsions.
A PEG derivative of coconut alcohol and trimethylolpropane that functions as an emulsifier, surfactant, and emollient in cosmetic formulations.